It should not have come as a surprise that care homes would be especially at risk from coronavirus.
We have known from the beginning that the sick, frail and elderly are most vulnerable in the pandemic.
It was also obvious the chances of infection are far more likely in residential homes where outside staff work.
Only now does it appear the Government has woken up to the scale of response needed to protect residents and their carers.
Matt Hancock says patients will now be tested before discharge from hospital into residential care.
The Health Secretary is also promising testing for those in care and their support staff.
Why was this not done earlier?
So far only 4,000 care workers have been referred for testing out of a workforce of 1.48 million.
It is impossible to see how the Government can meet its promises.
As we report today staff in care homes are crying out for protective kit.
Mr Hancock’s response is to promise care workers a badge.
They want a safe environment, not gimmicks.
Inspiring pair
Connie Titchen, 106, is the UK’s oldest known survivor of the coronavirus.
She left Birmingham City Hospital yesterday and cannot wait to be reunited with her family.
Her indomitable spirit is shared by Army veteran Captain Tom Moore, 99, who has raised more than £8million for NHS charities after fulfilling his pledge to walk 100 times round his garden.
He has vowed to complete another hundred.
Every one is a lap of honour.
Connie and Capt Tom are an inspiration.
These two survivors from the greatest generation have lifted the spirits of the nation.
Bow-ed over
In today’s Mirror you will find a wonderful drawing of a rainbow by five-year-old Keelan Madden.
Please display it in your window to say thank you to our brilliant frontline workers. And don’t forget to applaud them at 8pm.
